AU648062B2 - Hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures and amphibious and aquatic craft - Google Patents

Abstract

A hydroplaning hydrofoil and airfoil planing or flying wing structure is disclosed based on the concept of forward-swept planes or planar surfaces having swept-back fore foil sections and forward-swept aft foil sections upon which the hydrofoil/airfoil structure optionally supports itself and planes on or through a fluid preferably either water or air. Also disclosed are aquatic structures or watercraft to which the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures are optionally attached. In addition, light weight amphibious structures are disclosed; preferably these structures are sail, engine, or electric motor powered craft to which the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures are optionally attached.

Description

WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 Hydroplaning Hydrofoil/Airfoil Structures and Amphibious and Aquatic Craft Field of Invention: This invention relates to hydroplaning hydrofoils, airfoil structures or flying wirg structures, lightweight amphibious structures and aquatic crafts and more particularly to hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures that plane on or through a fluid preferably either water or air which are optionally self-supporting or attached to aquatic structures or watercraft, particularly sailing craft.

Background: Man continues to dream of going faster and faster.

On water and through air, this is evidenced by the changing designs of fresh water and ocean racing watercraft and the stealth aircraft flying wings.

Whatever the design, there is a continuing search for new hydrofoils, and airfoil or flying wing structures which will achieve faster speeds on water and through air. U.S. Patent 4,635,577, granted to Palmquist on January 13, 1987, is an example of one attempt to provide a hydroplaning hydrofoil and air wing supported sailing craft.

Summary of the Invention According to the present invention there is provided a hydroplaning hydrofoil and airfoil structure for planing on or through a fluid preferably either water or air comprising in its broadest aspects for water as exemplified in Figures 21-23: at least two foils each having an underside plane or substantially planar-bottom surface, two of said planar-bottom surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 2 bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil substantially planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of about 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of about 10 to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a forward swept leading edge ranging from about 00 transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to about 750 forward sweep, and each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline, each fore foil planarbottom section having a swept-back leading edge ranging from about 00 transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to about 800 swept-back, and each aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge ranging from about 00 transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to about 750 forward swept, and optional means for attaching said structure to an aquatic structure or watercraft. A preferred and most preferred hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure that planes on a fluid surface of water, surprisingly, planes or glides through air as an airfoil structure.

Such an airfoil structure, as disclosed in the title of this invention, will be more fully described in Figures 22, 24-29, and 37-41.

Also provided is an aquatic structure or watercraft comprising: at least one buoyant hull structure, a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure described above WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 3 attached to the underside of each hull with the fore and aft longitudinal top foil and bottom centerlines of said hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure under the longitudinal axis of each hull, and propulsion means mounted on said watercraft for powering the watercraft.

Additionally provided is an amphibious buoyant structure comprising: a port bow hull, a starboard bow hull, and a stern hull positioned aft along a longitudinal centerline between the port bow hull and the starboard bow hull; at least one crossbeam connector rigidly affixed to the port and starboard bow hulls; at l.east one fore and aft extending port connector and at least one fore and aft extending starboard connector, such connectors rigidly affixed to the stern hull and to the port and starboard bow hulls; propulsion means mounted on said structure for powering the structure; means for controlling the direction of movement of the structure; and supporting means attached to the underside of each hull for supporting and moving the structure over land, water, ice, or snow.

Brief Fcrition of the Drawings Figure 1 is an overall side view of a watercraft three hull amphibious tube structure hydroplaning with three supporting hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures with sail, engine, or electric motor propulsion; Figure 2 is a front view of the structure shown in Figure 1 with engine or electric motor propulsion; Figure 3 is a top view of the structure shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 is a fragmentary front view of Figure 2 showing a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure and the port bow hull; WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 4 Figure 5 is a fragmentary side view of the port bow hull and the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4 shown along line 5-5 of Figure 3; Figure 6 is a top view of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figures 4 and removed from the port bow hull; Figure 7 is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure and a cross-sectional front view of the stern hull shown along line 8-8 of Figure 3; Figure 8 is a side view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure and a fragmentary side view of the stern hull of the structure shown in Figures 1-3 and 7; Figure 9 is a top view of the stern hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figures 7 and 8 removed from the stern hull; Figures 10 through 20E show various hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures within the scope of the present invention in see through top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces, front or back views, and cross-sectional or side views, some showing the optional, removable step, rudder and fin, with the arrows indicating a reversible direction of motion; Figures 21 through 29 are see through top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures within the scope of the present invention showing the broadest, preferred, and most preferred compass degree angle ranges of various leading and trailing edges; Figure 30 is an overall top view of a watercraft three hull amphibious tube structure, which is a modification of the one shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3, with pivotable wings and hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil 1 I WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 structures and with sail, engine or electric motor propulsion; Figure 30A is an arched crossbeam tube connector; Figures 31A-D are enlarged cross-sectional views of four connector shapes, the one in Figure 31B shown in cross-section along line 7-7 of Figure 30 showing the starboard pivotable wing for creating a negative or positive air lift; Figure 32 is an rverall top view of a watercraft three hull amphibious tube structure, which is a modification of those shown in Figures 1-3 and 30, with three supporting hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures with sail, engine or electric motor propulsion; Figure 33 is the same front view of the port bow hull shown in Figure 4 with a removable strut mounted wheel; Figure 34 is a fragmentary side view of the structure shown in Fig'ure 33; Figure 35 is the same cross-sectioval front view of the stern hull shown in Figure 7 except having a removable strut mounted wheel; Figure 36 is a fragmentary side view of the structure shown in Figure Figure 37 is an enlarged side view identical in foil shape to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figures 4-6, with fin and struts removed, showing a scaled down engine or electric motor air propeller drive from Figure 1 plus a topside air rudder and elevator attachment; Figure 38 is the same side view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figure 37 ascending as an airfoil structure or flying wing planing or flying through air in sustained flight; WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 6 Figure 39 is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figure 37 hydroplaning on a fluid surface of water; Figure 40 is a top view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure shown in Figures 37, 38, and 39; and Figure 41 is an enlarged side view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure, identical in foil shape to said structures shown in Figures 4, 5, and 6, gliding or planing through air.

Detailed Description of the Invention Reference is made to Figures 1-9, which show a preferred embodiment of a watercraft 2 constructed with a three hull amphibious tube structure component and a preferred hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure component. A three hull amphibious tube structure comprises a port bow hull 1Q, a starboard bow hull 11 and a stern hull 12 forming a triangular configuration all rigidly connected. The bow hulls are rigidly attached via bolts or screws 17 by crossbeam tube connectors 13 and a4, and stern hull 12 is rigidly attached to bow hulls 12 and 11 by a fore and aft extending starboard tube connector J15 and a fore and aft extending port tube connector 1S. Stern hull 12 is positioned aft at a distance along a longitudinal centerline between port bow hull IQ and starboard bow hull 11 so that the three hulls are approximately equidistant; however, the stern hull 12 may be extended further aft or forward so as to form an isosceles triangle three point hull structure.

The forward extending starboard and port tube connectors 15 and fi are attached directly to stern hull 12 by bolts or screws .1 and to crossbeam tube connectors 13 and 14 by bolts or screws 26, and each are WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 7 angled out from the stern hull 12 at about 160 to the starboard and about 160 to the port but may extend straight forward at 00 or angle out to about 450 measured from the longitudinal centerline of watercraft 2. Each fore and aft extending starboard and port tube connector 15 and 16 extends forward to a point in front of the most forward crossbeam tube connector 13 to provide a connection and support for two forestays 1.

and 2Q leading to and attached to the upper part of sailing rig mast 21. Shrouds 22., 2, and 23, 25 of the sailing rig are connected to the starboard and port fore and aft extending tube connectors 15 and 2respectively. They also lead to and are attached to the upper part of mast 21. Backstay 21 is attached to stern hull 11 and leads to and is attached to the upper part of mast 21. Mast 21 is attached to the three hull tube connector structure by means of an optional mast step tube 215 (or a brace) positioned along the longitudinal fore and aft centerline of watercraft 2 and attached at each end to the two crossbeam tube connectors 13 and 14.

A stern hull crossbeam tube or brace 28 (optional) and a removably mounted traveler connector tube or support 22 are positioned in the fore section of stern hull 12 and are attached to the deck of stern hull 12 and to the two fore and aft extending tube connectors and 16 for extra support. Traveler connector tube or support 29 controls mainsheet Q3 shown in Figure 1 attached to boom 31. In Figure 3, traveler connector tube or support 29 is bent or angled forward from a transverse position on each side of watercraft 2 longitudinal centerline; however, it may be positioned across in a straight transverse position or curved forward to accommodate mainsheet 30, sail 32 and boom 31 as shown in Figures 30 and 32.

WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 8 A cockpit 33 and steering tiller 3A4 (showing direction of motion) are also positioned on stern hull 12.

Figures 30 and 32 show additional three hull amphibious tube structure components. The sail rigging to support the mast, sail and boom can be attached anywhere on all three hulls and on the traveler connector tube or support, preferably as shown.

The idea of a watercraft having three hulls spread far apart and connected only with tubes or connectors offers extremely light weight and stability; ideally matched for sailing on hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoils.

Materials of construction for all structures provided in this invention can be any materials; preferably they are buoyant and strong and can range from light weight materials and metals to high-tech composite materials.

The connectors or tubes shown in all hull connections are not limited to straight connectors or tubes. For example, Figure 30A shows crossbeam tube connector 13 arched or angled up slightly to a high point at the watercraft longitudinal centerline to give better wave clearance, and for optional cable, rope, or rod reinforcements. Secondary tubes, rods, and braces can also be added for additional strength. The bolts and screws used for connecting the three hulls and tube connectors are two of several fastening options which include fastpins, hose clamps, pipe clamps, cast or molded fittings, tube or pipe welding, and other fastening means known to those in the art.

As shown in Figures 1 and 3, an engine or e4'ctric motor 36 drives propeller 32. as an auxiliary propulsion means for watercraft In Figure 2, the engine or electric motor driven propeller is the sole power means.

The engine or electric motor 36 is attached to stern hull 12 by a stanchion support It is readily WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 9 apparent that other propulsion or power means can be used depending upon the type of watercraft or aquatic structure, 'he size, and the market. For example, the propulsion or power means can be an engine driven air or water propeller, an electric motor driven air or water propeller, human-powered pedal-driven air or water propeller, human-powered paddle wheels or rowing with oars, an engine driven waterjet or air jet drive, rubber band driven air or water propeller, a wind driven sailing rig, a wind driven wing sail, or a tow line affixed to a watercraft or affixed directly to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure.

As shown in Figures 1-9, three hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures i2, AL. and 41 are attached to the underside of hulls 0, 11 and 12 respectively of the three hull amphibious tube structure to provide supporting means to move the structure over water or a fluid (as shown) including ice level A42 or snow. Each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure is attached to each hull so that the longitudinal centerlines 61 of each hull are coplanar with the top foil and bottom centerlines 75 and 276 of each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure. In Figures 1 and 2, the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures are shown supporting the three hull watercraft 2 above water or fluid level 51, hydroplaning at high speed with very little wetted surface.

Details of a most preferred hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure as attached to a watercraft are shown in Figures 4-9, 27, 28 and 29. Various designs of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure in its broadest and preferred aspects, including reverse direction versatility, are shown in Figures 10-26.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5 (along line 5-5 of Figure accelerating hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 structure 39 is shown lifting port bow hull I0 from static water or fluid level A2 to initial water or fluid level AA at low speed. As speed increases through the hydrofoil/airfoil support range 45 to water or fluid level 46 at medium speed, the left side and right side foil top surfaces 47 and 48 (shown more clearly in Figure 6) are lifted completely above the water or fluid providing airfoil lift; and, aiazingly as hydroplaning starts, when the two left and right fore foil top sections 49 and 50 surface above water or fluid level 46 at medium speed, drag is reduced as hydroplaning continues from water or fluid level 46 at medium speed to water or fluid level 5. at high speed as shown by wetted planar-bottom surfaces in Figures 4-6. The hydroplaning support range is shown by 52 in Figure 4.

The exact speed and the water or fluid evels shown will vary according to the type of watercraft or aquatic structure, its displacement in water or fluid, the propulsion or power means selected, wind, water or fluid conditions, the buoyancy of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures, the angle of attack (or angle of incidence), and the size of the lifting planarbottom surface areas of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures.

Each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39 and AQ is attached to hu.,ls J1 and 11 respectively by two pivotal struts 53 and 54, and 55 and 56 respectively. As shown more fully in Figure 5, each strut has a pivot hole 57 and two vertical elongated adjusting slots 5.a and 59 near the top of each strut for attaching the strut to each side of the hull with bolts or screws 5Q (removed in this Figure 5 for clarity).

This enables each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 2a and either to be removed or to be reversed 1800 and still run as a hydroplaning WO 91/09767 WO 9109767PCUYUS90/07355 11 hydrofoil/airfoil structure. Any pivot or detachment means can be used in place of bolts or screws JQ through the struts. For example, various gear, pulley, rope, and cable connections can extend strut pivotal control back to cockpit U and operate by hand, winch, radio or computer controlled servos or a joy stick zis in an airplane. Pivot hole 51, in association with slots and will swing and adjust hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures 2.2 and AD- so as to adjust and control the angle of attack from about 1' to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to the longitudinal bottom centerline 765, preferably about 20 to 150, or at an average of about on water or f luid as shown in Figure Fins .52 are removably or reversibly attached to the underside of each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 3.2and -4-Q along the longitudinal bottom centerline 2.or parallel to the longitudinal bottom centerline (not shown).

Figures (along line 8-8 of Figure 3) and 8 show hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure _U attached to stern hull 12. showing means for rotating the structure to give directional control to thie watercraft I2 (shown by arrows in Figures 3 and Steering tiller 3A is attached by means of a tiller shaft §J3, which extends through shaft hole §SA in stern hull laZ, to' strut bracket Strut bracket Eli. is attached to stru~ts a55 and 16L by bolts or screws As with struts 51.-5_9- e-ach stern hull strut 1.5$ and L52 has a pivot hole 57 and two adjusting slots U. and 5.2. Steering tiller Ui1 rotates the entire hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure Al and rudder 22 for directional control of the watercraft.

As shown in Tigures 2, 6 and 9, each strut 53-..

and E7_2 is attached to the left side foil top surface 47 or the right side foil top surface _41 of each WO 91/09767 PCT/US9/07355 12 hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39, 4a and 41 by bolts, screws or rivets 23 through a strut flange 71.

Any attachment means can be used in place of bolts, screws or rivets 20. Reversible fins _2 (shown with a dotted line in Figure and reversible rudder 12 are attached to the underside of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures by bolts or screws 27 and 74 respectively.

To more fully understand the water or fluid levels, speed references and the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures shown in Figures 4-9, each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure has a left side foil top surface 47 and a right side foil top surface a converging to form a full length fore and aft longitudinal top foil centerline 15, and a bottcm centerline 27 formed by two converging full leng:.h foil planar-bottom surfaces, a left side foil planar-bottom surface 77 and a right side foil planar-bottom surface 28. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 ascend transversely from the longitudinal bottom centerline I7 to form a dihedral angle of about 180 as shown or in the range of about 20 to 500 broadly or preferably also in the range of about 20 to 500 or most preferably in the range of about 20 to 30°. The 180 dihedral angle shown is the angle o" inclination of the left and right foil planar-bottom surfaces 17 and 18 measured in compass degrees up from a transverse horizontal line intersecting the longitudinal bottom centerline 76.

Figure 13A shows a dihedral range of about 20 to 500.

As can be seen, having two converging foil planarbottom surfaces with ascending dihedral angles provides a smoother ride in rough water than a flat bottom surface, and substantially reduces the wetted surface transversely when hydroplaning at water or fluid level WO 91/09767 PCTIUS9O/07355 13 46 at medium speed, and water or fluid level .51 at high speed.

Each left side foil planar-bottom surface 77 and right side foil planar-bottom surface 78 has a fore foil planar-bottom section (79 and Q8 respectively) which is a forward extension along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76. Each fore foil planar-bottom section has a swept-back leading edge of 600 as shown or one ranging from about 00 transversely from the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 to about 800 swept-back broadly or preferably ranging from about 300 to about 750 sweptback or most preferably ranging from about 450 to about 700 swapt-back. As used herein, all forward swept and swept-back leading and trailing edges are measured in compass degrees transversely to the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 as shown with arrows and compass degrees in Figures 14, 16, 18, 19, and 21 through 29.

The length of each fore foil planar-bottom section 79 and 80, as shown in Figures 5 :And 6, is about the first one-third of the entire length or chord of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal top foil and bottom centerlines 75 and 76; however, the length of the fore foil planar-bottom sections in their broadest aspects can range from 0° shown in Figure 23 or in the preferred length of about one fourth of the chord length shown in Figure 26 to about the first two-thirds to three-fourths of the chord length along top foil and bottom centerlines 75 and 76 shown in Figures 22 and Each left side foil planar-bottom surface 22 and right side foil planar-bottom surface 2 has an aft foil planar-bottom section which is a backward or aft extension along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76.

As shown in Figures 4-6, each aft foil planar-bottom section 68 and j6 at high speed water or fluid level 51 WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 14 has a forward swept trailing edge 82 of 300 or one ranging broadly from about 0° transversely from longitudinal bottom centerline 76 to about 750 forward swept or preferably ranging from about 50 to about 600 forward swept or most preferably from about 100 to about 450 forward swept. The trailing edge ranges are described more fully in Figures 21-29.

The length of each aft foil planar-bottom section 68 and 69 is about the last one-fourth to about onethird of the entire chord length of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 at high speed water or fluid level 51 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and vary in wetted surface area and length with speed and load; however, it is the section of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure which provides for high speed hydroplaning.

The left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have left wing and right wing forward swept 'eading edges 81 of 120 as shown in Figures 1 through 9; however, left and right leading edges 81 can be forward swept in the broad range of about 00 transversely from longitudinal bottom centerline 76 to about 750 forward sweep, or preferably in the range of about 20 to about 600 forward sweep, or most preferably in the range of about 40 to about 450 forward sweep.

Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have forward swept trailing edges coextensive with aft foil planar-bottom section trailing edge 82, forward swept 30° as shown in Figures 1 through 9, but with forward swept ranges as described above and in Figures 21 through 29.

Relative to performance advantages, it should be added that incorporating hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil forward swept left wing and right wing planar-bottom surfaces with transverse ascending dihedral angles and a WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 positive angle of attack in the direction of motion with leading edges and trailing edges that sweep forward, is not just an eye-catching idea to be different, but it is very functional in that the forward swept leading edges actually lift above the water or fluid surface providing airfoil lift through air and to facilitate hydroplaning of the fore foil and aft foil planar-bottom sections to achieve wave clearance sooner during acceleration at medium speed, as compared to swept-back leading edges that do not lift above the water or fluid as soon during acceleration, or lift above waves with as much clearance. The end result is achieved when the forward swept aft foil planar-bottom sections 68. and 6 hydroplane at high speed water or fluid level This enables a watercraft or aquatic structure to perform at high speeds, touching the water or fluid surface with extremely little drag and wetted bottom surface with both hydroplane and airfoil lift, ideal for smootn water and skip planing over wave crests and through air.

Figures 10 through 20E will describe various configurations of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures of this invention in see through foil top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces, cross-sectional views, and front or back views. Where possible, the reference numerals used in Figures 1-9 will be used for consistency and ease of understanding.

Figures 6, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 18 structures are for planing on a fluid surface of water and for planing or flying through a fluid preferably air. Figures 14, 16 and 19 structures are for planing on a fluid surface of water.

Figure 10 shows a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having longitudinal bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length left WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 16 side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 ascending transversely up from a horizontal line at about 20 to 50' predetermined dihedral angle (shown in Figure 13A) to the left and right sides of the longitudinal bottom centerline 76, foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 having fore foil planar-bottom sections _U and 3Q respectively, swept-back wivh 600 leading edges. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have transverse or about 00 leading edges 81 and 300 forward swept trailing edges .2 converging on the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft, forming aft foil planar-bottom sections La and 69.

Amphibious, and reverse direction performances are described with reference to the structure of Figure however these performances apply equally to the structures of the other drawings having a reversible arrow. Optional holes 82 along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 provide a means to bolt or screw a fin, or rudder to the underside of the structure along the lcngitudinal bottom centerline 276 as in Figure 17 or parallel to the longitudinal bottom centerline such as along lines 835 and 86 in Figure 13. Optional holes 89.

along the bottom centerline 2L forming fore foil planarbottom sections 22 and 80 also provide means to permanently or reversibly affix a step to the underside of the structure relative to the direction of motion of the structure. Such a step, described in more details in Figures 14A, 15, 16B, and 17, may be used for improved hydroplaning over rough water or fluid and running through snow. A detachable fin provides improved lateral plane through water or fluid and snow, and as a runner on ice as shown in Figures 4 and 5 by ice level A42. A detachable rudder provides improved steering control through water or fluid and snow, and as a steering runner on ice. It should be added that the SWO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 17 step, fin or cudder may be removed in some water or fluid conditions, but fin and rudder control would be required in snow and as a runner on ice. The step, fin or rudder may also be made as permanent fixtures as described in Figure 17.

By turning the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure around fore and aft 1800 and reversing the step, fin and rudder, the structure will operate in a reverse direction of motion, and a watercraft or aquatic structure will still perform as a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure within the scope of this invention. Figures 17-17F show various forward motion and reversible hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil cross sections.

Figure 11 shows a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having longitudinal bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 ascending transversely up from a horizontal line at about 20 to 500 predetermined dihedral angle (shown in Figure 13A) to the left and right sides of the longitudinal bottom centerline 76, foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 38 having fore foil planar-bottom sections U7. and 8Q respectively, swept-back with 600 leading edges. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have 300 forward swept leading edges 8. and 450 forward swept trailing edges 82 converging on the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft, forming aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 9.

The optional ho.'.es 89 along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 provide the same amphibious and reverse direction performances described in Figure Figure 12 shows a see through top v ew of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of a hydroplaning WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 18 hydrofoil/airfoil structure having longitudinal bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 27 and 78 ascending transversely up from a horLzontal line at about 20 to 50° predetermined dihedral angle (shown in Figure 13A) to the left and right sides of the longitudinal bottom centerline 2L, foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 278 having fore foil planar-bottom sections 79 and 80 respectively, swept-back with 600 leading edges. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have 30° forward swept leading edges 81 and 450 and 600 forward swept angular trailing edges 82 converging on the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft; forming aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 69.

The optional holes 89 along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 provide the same amphibious and reverse direction performances described in Figure Figures 13 and 13A show a see through top view of four bottom planes or planar-bottom surfaces and a back view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having an elevated longitudinal bottom centerline 76 formed by two full length intersecting left and right foil planar-bottom surfaces 83 and 84 descending transversely down from a horizontal line at about predetermined negative dihedral angle to a lower left longitudinal bottom line intersection 85 and a lower right longitudinal bottom line intersection 86 which intersect with an outer left full length foil planarbottom surface 22 and an outer right full length foil planar-bottom surface 78 respectively, each ascending transversely up from a horizontal line at about 300 predetermined dihedral angle to the full hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil wingspan with longitudinal cut off ends. The dihedral angle broadest and preferred range is about 20 to 50° as shown in Figure 13A and is the WVO 91/09767 PPCT/US90/07355 19 broad and preferred range for all hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil planar-bottom surfaces shown in this invention. The most preferred range is described in Figures 27-29. This structure of Figure 13 has four fore foil planar-bottom sections 13, 80, 87 and _U with four swept-back leading edges of about 60°. Fore foil planar-bottom sections 79 and Q8 are formed by outer left and right planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 and fore foil planar-bottom sections 87 and S£ are formed by left and right foil planar-bottom surfaces 83 and 84.

Planar-bottom surfaces 83 and 84 intersect outer left and right planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 28 at lower left and right longitudinal bottom line intersections 85 and SS.respectively, and with each other at elevated longitudinal bottom centerline 76. Outer left anid right planar-bottom surfaces .7 and 27 have about 300 forward swept leading edges 81 and about 450 forward swept trailing edges 82 converging on elevated longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft, forming four aft foil planarbottom sections 68, r6, 69 and 69. The compass degree references of the leading and trailing edges in Figure 13 may vary within the preferred range described in Figures 4-9 and 24-26.

The optional holes 89 along the elevated longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and lower left and lower right longitudinal bottom line intersections and 86 provide the same amphibious and reverse direction performances as described in Figure Figures 14 and 14A show a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces and a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on a fluid surface of water having longitudinal r bottom centerline 1 formed by two converging full length left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 9Q and 21 ascending transversely up from a WO 91/09767 P<J/US90/7355 horizontal line at about 150 (shown in Fig. 14A) predetermined dihedral angle to the left and right sides of the longitudinal bottom centerline 76, foil planarbottom surfaces 90 and 91 having fore foil planar-bottom sections 92 and 31 respectively, swept-back with about 450 leading edges ja that extend to the full width foil left and right planar-bottom surfaces 90 and 91, concluding at outer ends 99 from which about 450 forward swept trailing edges 9A converge on the longitudinal bottom centerline 276 aft, forming aft foil planar-bottom sections 102 and 1U. The compass degree references of the leading and trailing edges in Figure 14 may vary with up to about 250 more or less sweep within the scope of this configuration. Leading edges 98 and trailing edges 94 may be optionally curved or angled inward or outward as shown in Figure 14 and Figures 18 and 12.

The dihedral angle range for foil planar-bottom surfaces and 91 is described in Figure 13A. The structure in this Figure 14 and all other hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure figures may be constructed and operated in two halves separated along section line 6-6 vertical to longitudinal bottom line 76 forming two structures.

A 250 dihedral angle hydroplaning step 95 is attached with bolt or screw 96 through hole j9 under fore foil planar-bottom sections 92 and 93. A fin or rudder 972 is attached with bolts or screws 96 on the underside of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 or parallel to longitudinal bottom centerline 16. Step and fin or rudder 72 may be attached as a step and fin combination, a step and rudder combination, fin only, or rudder only; and be permanently or reversibly attached to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having the same amphibious and reverse direction performances IWO 91/09767 PC/US90/07355 21 as described in Figure 10. Step 95 shown in Figure 14A has a dihedral angle in the range of about 40 to 520 up from a horizontal transverse line and is the range for all steps attached to any of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures in this invention. Step also has a wedge angle of attack of about 20 to 450 down from longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and is shown in more detail in Figures 15, 16B, and 17.

Figure 15 is a cross section view of Figures 14 and 16 along line 6-6 and longitudinal bottom centerline 76 showing a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil cross section from Figure 17 with step .9 and fin or rudder 97 removably attached with bolts 96 (or screws or any other means) to provide the same amphibious and reverse direction performances as described in Figures 10, 14, and 14A. The step 95 wedge angle of attack is in the range of about 20 to 450 down from the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 as shown in Figure 15 or any other figure where attached.

Figures 16 and 16A show a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces and a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on a fluid surface of water having longitudinal bottom centerline 76 formed Il two converging full length left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces Q9 and 91 ascending transversely up from a horizontal line at about 150 (shown in Figure 16A) predetermined dihedral angle to the left and right sides of the longitudinal bottom centerline 76, foil planarbottom surfaces Q9 and J1, having fore foil planarbottom sections 92 and 93 respectively, swept-back with about 600 leading edges 98 that extend to the full width foil left and right planar-bottom surfaces 3Q. and 91, concluding at longitudinal outer ends 9A from which about 00 transverse trailing edges J1L converge on the WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 22 longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft, forming aft foil planar-bottom sections 1 and 213,. The dihedral angle range for foil planar-bottom surfaces 90 and 1. is described in Figure 13A. The compass degree references of the leading and trailing edges in Figure 16 may vary with up to about 250 more or less sweep within the scope of this configuration. Leading edges Pj and trailing edges J10 may be optionally curved or angled inward or outward as shown in Figure 16 and Figures 18 and 12.

A 300 dihedral angle hydroplaning step 95 is attached with bolt or screw 96 through hole 89 under fore foil planar-bottom sections 92 and 93. A fin or rudder 97 is attached with bolts or screws 96 on the underside of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 or parallel to longitudinal bottom centerline 76. Step and fin or rudder 19 may be attached in combinations as described for Figures 14 and 14A; and may be reversibly attached to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having the same amphibious and reverse direction performances as described in Figure Figure 16B shows an isometric view of step having a hole .01 which is in alignment with hole 89 under bolt or screw 96 in fore foil planar-bottom sections 79 and e8 or fore foil planar-bottom sections 92 and 9 through which bolt or screw 96 is used to secure step 95. to the underside of the planar-bottom fore sections. When used in the present invention, step has an angle of attack in the range of about 20 to 450 down from longitudinal bottom center] ine 76 shown in Figure 15 and a dihedral angle in the range of about to 520 up from a horizontal transverse line shown in Figure 14A. The step shown may be made permanent or detachable and cut or shaped to fit along the underside WO 91/09767 PCrUS90/07355 23 of any of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures of this invention.

Figure 17 shows a longitudinal top foil centerline and bottom centerline 1L_ cross section view of an optionally reversible hydroplaning hydrofoii/airfoil cross section that has identical foil sbhipe from the leading and trailing edges and 82) the center of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil chord length. This figure shows a six percent center chord maximum foil thickness between curved top foil centerline 75 and straight bottom center-line 76 as a percentage of its chord length; however, the percent of foil thickness is optional but usually around six percent of the chord length or in a broad range of less than one percent as in a sheet or plate to about twenty percent of the chord length for extra buoyancy in water and lift in water and air.

The cross sections in Figures 17-17F offer a substantial buoyancy range in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure itself above or in water or fluid.

Figure 17 also shows a reversible rough water or snow hydroplaning step 95 and a fin or rudder 97 attached with removable bolts 9.j or screws through holes ,89 to provide the same amphibious and reverse direction performances as described in Figure 10. If only one direction of motion is desired, the step 95 and fin or rudder 97 may be made as permanent fixtures, by any means, to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure of this invention. It should be added that the step .2.

and fin or rudder 22 may be removed in some water or fluid conditions, but fin or rudder control would be required on snow and as a runner on ice. The fin or WO 91/09767 PC/US9/07355 24 rudder 97 may also provide directional control through air similar to fin 62 shown in Figure 41, and is an option with all cross sections shown in Figures 17-17F.

Figure 17A shows a longitudinal centerline cross section view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil shape designed to move primarily in one direction of motion showing a step 95 and a fin or rudder 2l bolted or screw attached 2E to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure of this invention. The step, fin or rudder may be made as permanent fixtures or completely removed in sone water or fluid conditions as stated in Figure 17. The step, fin or rudder may be attached by any means.

The ten percent, forward of center chord, maximum foil thickness in this Figure between the curved top foil centerline 75 and the nearly straight bottom centerline 76 is optional; but a broad range of less than one percent as in a sheet or plate to twenty percent of the chord length offers substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure above or in water or fluid.

Figure 17B shows a longitudinal centerline cross section view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil shape designed to move primarily in one direction of motion showing an elongated teardrop cross section hav:.ng ten percent, forward of cente- chord, maximum foil thickness between the curved top foil centerline 75 and Zurved bottom centerline 76. The optional holes 8.S provide a means to bolt or screw a detachable step, fin or rudder.

The foil thickness has a broad range of less than one percent as in a sheet or plate to twenty percent of the chord length in this figure, offering substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to WO 91/09767 PCT/US9O/07355 partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure above or in water or fluid, Figure 17C shows a longitudinal centerline cross section view of an optionally reversible hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil shape showing thin, spaced, substantially parallel top foil and botcom centerlines and 16 that form a flat plate, planar, or sheet shaped hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure. The small leading and trailing edges 81 and 82 offer less resistance through water or a fluid including air and over snow, and optional holes 28 are for a detachable step .5 or fin or rudder 97. The foil thickness between the top foil centerline 75 and bottom centerline 76 may be very thin or increased and curvature added to offer substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoi structure above or in water or fluid.

Figure 17D shows a longitudinal centerline cross section view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil shape designed to move primarily in one direction of motion.

The leading edge in this figure is curved up several degrees ranging from about one degree to thirty-five degrees to hydroplane over rough water or fluid or run over snow. The optional holes I are for a detachable step .5 or fin, or rudder 97. The foil thickness between the top foil centerline 75 and bottom centerline 1S may be very thin as in a sheet or plate or increased and curvature added to offer substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure above or in water or fluid.

WO 91/09767 PCT/U590/07355 26 Figure 17E shows a longitudinal centerline cross section view of an optionally reversible hydroplaning hydr,"oil/airfoil forming an elongated oval shape having an airfoil cross section identical at the leading and trailing edges 81 and 82 to the center of the airfoil chord length. As with the cross section shown in Figure 17, the percent of foil thickness between the curved top foil centerline 75 and curved bottom cert(rline 76 ranges from less than one percent as in a sheet or plate to twenty percent of the chord length. The foil thickness may be increased and curvature added to offer substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure, or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure above or in water or fluid.

Figure 17F shows a longitudinal centerline cross sect-ion view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil having a substantially elongated wedge shape designed to move primarily in one direction of motion. The foil thickness or elongated wedge angle between the top centerline 275 and bottom centerline 76 may be very thin or increased and curvature added to offer substantial buoyancy in water or fluid at static or slow speeds to partially or totally support a light weight watercraft, aquatic structure, or a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure above or in water or fluid.

Any of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures of this invention can be made from metal; composites, canvas sheets, paper sheets, plastic sheets, fiberglass, carbon graphite fiber, Kevlar® (aramid fibers), film sheets, fabric sheets, plastic or wood struts, foam or balsa core materials, molded plastic, laminated wood or plywood. Other wing covering materials and structural materials may be used to WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 27 fabricate or mold the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures of this invention.

Figure 18 provides a general descriptive reference to all top views and see through foil top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure in this invention showing the shape or dotted line edge curvature options of all foil planar-bottom sections including leading edges 81 and 98 in Figures 12, 14, 16, 18, 1.9 and trailing edges 82, a, and I00 in Figures 1.2, 14, 16, 18 and 19, and the detachable hydroplaning step in forward and reverse positions with holes 89 along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 for attaching an optionally reversible fin or rudder 97.

First, all forward swept and swept-back l.eading and trailing edges, in all figures, are measured in compass degrees transversely to the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 as shown for clarity with ar.iows and compass degrees in Figures 14, 16, 18, 19, and 21 through 29.

Second, all leading edges and trailing edges may be straight line edges or optionally curved or angled inward or outward to various curvatures, compound curves, angles or degrees as shown in Figure 18 and Figures 12, 14, 16, and 19 within performances and the scope of this invention. All edge intersections may be curved, rounded or angled inwardly or outwardly, as also shown in Figures 18 and 13, and are within the scope of this invention.

Third, the detachable hydroplaning step 95 shown with dotted lines attached under the fore foil planarbottom sections 79 and 8Q may be turned around 1800, and reattached in a reverse position under the aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 6 for reverse direction of motion as described in Figure 10. The optional holes WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 28 89 along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 provide a means to attach the step 95 or fin or rudder 97 also as described in Figure 0.

Figure 19 shows a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on a fluid surface of water and is the same as the one shown in Figure 16 except that it has about 30° inverted sweptback trailing edges I00 converging on the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 aft forming two aft foil planarbottom sections Q02 and J03. The compass degree references of the leading and trailing edges in Figure 19 may vary with up to about 250 more or less sweep and are within the scope of this configuration. Leading edges 98 and trailing edges I00 may be optionally curved or angled inward or outward as shown in Figures 19, 18, and 12.

Figure 20 is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having a fore and aft longitudinal curved top foil centerline 75 and a bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and and leading edges il ascending transversely at about 300 predetermined dihedral angle to the left and right sides of longitudinal bottom centerline however, the dihedral angle can range from about 20 tc 500 up in its broadest aspects from a horizontal line as shown in Figure 13A.

Attached to the structure along the underside of bottom centerline 6. is a transverse 400 dihedral angle step and a vertical fin or rudder 97 attached with bolts or screws 96. The dihedral angle of the step can range from about 40 to 520 up from a horizontal line as shown in Figure 14A.

Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 29 Figure 20A is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having a fore and aft longitudinal curved top foil centerline 75 and a bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 and leading edges 81 ascending transversely up through a gradual downward curve or arch between the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and two foil tips or wing tips as shown. A straight line or chord drawn between the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and either wing tip gives a dihedral angle in a range of about 20 to As in other Figures, a vertical fin or rudder 97 is attached with bolts or screws 96. Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure Figure 20B is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having a fore and aft longitudinal curved top foil centerline 75 and a bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces 27 and 278 and leading edges 81 ascending transversely in a gradual upward curve between the longitudinal botiom centerline 76 and two foil tips or wing tips as shown. A straight line or chord drawn between the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and either wing tip gives a dihedral angle in a range of about to 500°. As in other Figures, a step, vertical fin or rudder may be attached with bolts or screws through the dotted longitudinal centerline hole 8 (or holes) shown in this figure. Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure Figure 20C is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having a fore and aft longitudinal curved top foil centerline 75 and a bottom centerline _6 formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces 77. and I and leading edges 81 WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 ascending transversely at high and low dihedral angles between the longitudinal bottom centerline Z and two foil tips or wing tips as shown. A straight line or chord drawn between the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and either wing tip gives a dihedral angle in a range of about 20 to 50°. As in other Figures, a step, fin or rudder may be attached with bolts or screws through the dotted longitudinal centerline hole B9 (or holes) shown in this figure. Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure Figure 20D is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having a fore and aft longitudinal curved top foil centerline 75 and a bottom centerline 76. formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 and leading edges RI ascending transversely at low and high dihedral angles between the longitudinal bottom centerline 76 and the two foil tips or wing tips as shown. A straight line or chord drawn between the longitudinal bottom. centerline 76 and either wing tip gives a dihedral angle in a range of about 20 to 50°. As in the other Figures, a step, fin or rudder may be attached with bolts or screws through the dotted longituainal centerline hole 89 (or holes) shown in this figure. Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure Figure 20E is a front view of a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure having full length left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and I8 and leading edge 81 ascending transversely as shown from a center wing continuous curve to upward curved wing tips.

A straight line or chord drawn from center wing leading edge flJ to either wing tip gives a dihedral angle in the range of about 20 to 500 up from a horizontal line. A step, fin or rudder described in Figure 20D is optional.

WC)8 91/097677 PCT/US90/07355 31 Amphibious and reverse direction performances are as described in Figure Figures 21, 22 and 23 are see through foil top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures for planing on a fluid surface of water showing leading and trailing edges in their broadest aspects within the approximate compass degree range and scope of this invention.

Figure 22 structure will also plane through a fluid preferably air as described hereinafter for Figure 22.

All forward swept and swept-back leading an-i trailing edges in all Figures are measured in approximate compass degrees transversely to the longitudinal bottom centerline as shown with arrows in Figures 14, 16, 18, 19 and 21-29. As with earlier drawings, the reference numerals are the same for clarity and simplification, Figure 21 is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 29 and 80 swept-back at about 800. The leading edges 81 of the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have a forward sweep of about Trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planarbottom sections 68 and 69 are forward swept at about An optional step and fin or rudder can be attached to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline _fi with bolts or screws through holes j9 as described in Figures 10 and 17, and in other figures.

Figure 22, as with Figure 21, is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and 80 sv.ept-back at about 800; however, as shown in this figure, leading edges 81 of the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 32 77 and 28 are perpendicular to longitudinal bottom centerline .76 about 00 transverse sweep) Trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planarbottom sections 68 and L9. are also perpendicular to longitudinal bottom centerline 6 about 00 transverse sweep). This structure planes on a fluid surface of water and also planes through a fluid preferably air as claimed. Again, an optional step and fin or rudder can be attached to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline 76 with bolts or screws through holes 89 as described earlier in Figures 17 and other figures.

Figure 23 is a see through top view of the bottom plane oz planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 2279 and 80 and the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 2. both at about 00 transverse sweep perpendicular to bottom centerline 6) As in Figure 22, trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planar-bottom seztions 68 and 69 are also at about 00 transverse sweep perpendicular to bottom centerline With this configuration, an optional step 95 is attached to the underside of left and right fore foil planar-bottom sections 79 and Q80 with bolt or screw to the underside of the structure along longitudinal bottom centerline Step 95 has ascending left side and right side dihedral angles in the range of about 40 to 520 as shown in Figure 14A and left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 each have an ascending transverse dihedral angle from the bottom centerline 76 in the range of about 20 to 500 as shown in Figure 13A.

A fin or rudder .97 is attached by bolts or screws 96 to the underside of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal bottom centerline 26 to IWO 91/09767 PC/US90/07355 33 provide directional control at hydroplaning speeds described in Figures 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. The step, fin or rudder can be made as permanent fixtures by any means.

The angle of attack for the broadest aspects of the structure is about 10 to 160 up from a horizontal longitudinal line to the longitudinal bottom centerline 2i3 as shown in Figure Figures 24, 25 and 26 are see through foil top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures for planing on a fluid surface of water or through a fluid preferably air showing leading and trailing edges in their preferred aspects within the approximate compass degree range and scope of this invention. Again, the reference numerals are the same for clarity and simplification.

Figure 24 is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and 8Q swept-back at about 75°. Leading edges 1l of the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have a forward sweep of about 600; and trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 69 are forwcrd swept at about 600. An optional step and fin or rudder can be attached to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline 76 with bolts or screws through holes 89 as described in Figures 10, 17 and other figures.

Figure 25, as with Figure 24, is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and 80 swept-back at about 750; however, as shown in this figure, leading edges 81 of left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 are forward swept at about 20. Trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 34 and 92 are forward swept at about 50°. Again, an optional step and fin or rudder can be attached by bolts or screws through holes 8 to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline 76.

Figure 26 is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and 80 swept-back at about 300; and the leading edges 81 of the left and right side foil planarbottom surfaces 77 and _2 are forward swept at about Trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planarbottom sections 68 and 69 are forward swept at about An optional step can be attached to the underside of left and right fore foil planar-bottom sections 79 and 80 by bolt or screw as shown in Figure 23 and is made to conform to an ascending preferred transverse dihedral angle of about 20 to 500 formed by the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 727 and 78.

Again, an optional fin or rudder can be attached by bolts or screws through holes 89. The preferred angle of attack for these preferred structures is about 20 to 150 up from a horizontal longitudinal line to the longitudinal bottom centerline 3&.

Figures 27, 28 and 2 are see through foil top views of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces of hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures for planing on a fluid surface of water or through a fluid preferably air showing leading and trailing edges in their most preferred aspects within the approximate compass degree range and scope of this invention. Reference numerals are again the same for clarity and simplification.

Figure 27 is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and IQ swept-back at about 70°. Leading WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 edges 81 of the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 have a forward sweep of about 450; and trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and -9 are forward swept at about 450. An optional step and fin or rudder can be attached to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline 76 with bolts or screws through holes 289 as described in Figures 10, 17 and other figures.

Figure 28, as with Figure 27, is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 79 and 8j swept-back at about 700; however, as shown in this figure, leading edges 81 of the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 2277 and 2k8 are forward swept at about 40. Trailing edges Sof the left and right aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 69 are forward swept at about 100. Again, an optional step and fin or rudder can be attached by bolts or screws through holes 82 to the underside of the structure along bottom centerline 76.

Figure 29 is a see through top view of the bottom plane or planar-bottom surfaces which shows the leading edges of the fore foil left and right planar-bottom sections 29 and 80 swept-back at about 450; and the leading edges 81 of the left and right side fcil planarbottom surfaces 277 and 78 are forward swept at about Trailing edges 82 of the left and right aft foil planarbottom sections 68 and 69 are forward swept at about 100.

In the most preferred embodiments shown in Figures 27, 28 and 29, the ascending transverse dihedral angle formed by the left and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 2 and 78 is most preferably in the range of about 20 to 300. The optional step when attached to the underside of left and right fore foil planar-bottom WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 36 sections 29 and 8Q of these structures will conform to a dihedral angle which is predetermined. The angle of attack for these most preferred structures is in the range of about 20 to 150 up from a horizontal longitudinal line to the longitudinal bottom centerline 76. An optional fin or rudder can be attached by bolts or screws through holes S9 to the underside of the structure along longitudinal bottom centerline ZE.

Figure 30 is an overall top view of a sail 32, engine or electric motor 36 and propeller 31 power option, removably attached to a three hull amphibious tube structure component. Figure 30 has the same hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure components 39, A4 and 41 as shown in Figures 1-9 and 32; however, the three hull amphibious tube structure component shown in Figure 30 is a modification of the one shown in Figure 3. In describing Figure 30, the same reference numerals will be used as in Figures 1-9 for clarity and simplification for the same parts. As shown, a three hull amphibious tube structure component consists of a triangular three point hull float structure interconnected with port and starboard pivotal wings 105 and J10 and crossbeam tube connector 13 attached with bolts or screws 12 to the decks of a port bow hull 1Q and a starboard bow hull 11 having a removable mast 21 stepped or attached to the center of crossbeam tube connector 13 on the longitudinal fore and aft centerline of watercraft 3.

The stern hull 12 is positioned aft at a distance along a longitudinal centerline between the port bow hull 10 and starboard bow hull 11 so that the three hulls are about equidistant; however, the stern hull 12 may be extended further aft iorming an isosceles triangle three point hull float structure or further forward still forming a triangular three point hull IWO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 37 float structure. Attached to the stern hull deck with bolts or screws 18 is a fore and aft extending port tube connector J1, and a fore and aft extending starboard tube connector 1l5, each angled out from the longitudinal centerline of stern hull 12 at about 330, but may range from straight forward at 00 to an angle out of about 450 measured out from the longitudinal centerline of watercraft Each fore and aft extending starboard and port tube connector 15 and 21 extends forward and out to the starboard and port hulls 11 and and optionally bent, welded or braced forward to support each hull at or near the longitudinal centerline 61 of each hull for a short distance along or near the centerline on the two decks for screw or bolt attachments 104. The two fore and aft extending tube connectors 15 and 16 may pass over or under the crossbeam tube connector 13, or even bonded, braced or welded to the crossbeam tube to form the same or similar structure as shown in this figure.

An optional stern hull crossbeam tube or brace 28, and curved forward traveler connector tube or support 22, are positioned across the fore section of stern hull 12 and are attached to the deck and two fore and aft extending tube connectors J1 and 16 with bolts or screws ,1 or any other means for extra support, and controlling the sail 12 and boom 31 with mainsheet 2Q (not shown, see Figure The traveler connector tube or support 2 may also be angled forward as shown in Figure 3 or straight as shown in Figure 32. A cockpit 3. and steering tiller J3 (showing direction of motion) are also positioned on the stern hull 12. The rigging (forestays 12 and backstay 22, and shrouds 22 and 23) to support the mast 21, sail 32 and boom 31, may be attached as shown or anywhere on the three hull amphibious tube structure component.

91/09767 PCTIUS90/07355 38 The port and starboard pivotal wings 105 and 106, also shown in cross sectior Figure 31B along line 7-7 of Figure 30, may slide over, or fasten to crossbeam tube connector 13 with attachment means 107 to connect control lines, rods, or cables 12. back to the stern hull 12 and cleated as shown. Pivotal wings 1,5 and 106 are used for creating a positive or negative air or fluid lift to the watercraft; however, any other means including winches, joy sticks, and radio control or computer controlled servos can be used which will perforn the same pivotal control function.

Details of connector shapes, in cross section, are shown in Figures 31A, C and D. Figure 31A shows a circular tube; Figure 31C, an elliptical connector for reduced air drag; and Figure 31D shows a streamlined airfoil or teardrop shaped connector. While the connector cross sections shown are optional additions or replacements to the crossbeam tube connector 13, the shapes shown may vary in cross section and apply equally to all tube connectors used, crossbeam tube connectors 13 and J1, fore and aft starboard and port tube connectors 15. and 16, stern hull crossbeam tube or brace 28. and traveler connector tube or support 2..

As indicated in Figure 3, the idea of having three hulls spread far apart connected only with tubes or other streamlined connectors shown in Figure 31, offers extremely light weight, and stability, ideally matched for sailing on hydroplaning hydrofcil/airfoil structures. Again, materials for construction may range from light weight metal to high-tech composites for all structures shown in this invention.

The tubes, or other streamlined connectors shown in Figures 31A, C and D, are not limited to straight tubes or connectors. For example, the crossbeam tube connector 13 and pivotal wings 19J5, 16i shown in Figure WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 39 may be arched or angled up slightly to a high point at the watercraft longitudinal centerline as shown in Figure 30A to give better wave clearance, and for optional cable, rope, rod reinforcements. Secondary tubes, rods, braces, and other connectors can be added to the primary three hull amphibious tube structure component and hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure component within the design, function, and scope of this invention.

Figure 32 is an overall top view of a sail 32, engine or electric motor 36 and propeller 37 power option, removably attached to a three hull amphibious tube structure component. Figure 32 has the same hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure components 3, AQ. and Al as shown in Figures 1-9 and 30; however, the three hull amphibious tube structure shown in Figure 32 is a modification of the ones shown in Figure 3 and Figure 30. In describing Figure 32 (as in Figure the same reference numerals will be used as in Figures 1-9 for clarity and simplifi, 'cion for the same parts.

As shown, a three hull amphibious tube structure component consists of a triangular three point hull float structure interconnected with two crossbeam tube connectors 13 and J. attached with bolts or screws 17 to the decks of a port bow hull L1 and a starboard bow hull .1 having a removable mast step tube or brace positioned along a longitudinal fore and aft centerline of watercraft 2, attached at each end to the two crossbeam tube connectors 1 and IA.

The stern hull 12 is positioned aft at a distance along a longitudinal centerline between the port bow hull j0 and starboara bow hull 11 so that the three hulls are about equidistant; however, the stern hull 12 may be extended further aft forming an isosceles triangle three point hull float structure or further WO 91/09767 PCr/US90/07355 forward still forming a triangular three point hull float structure. Attached to the stern hull deck with bolts or screws 18 is a fore and aft extending starboard tube connector 15, and a fore and aft extending port tube connector J1., each angled out from the longitudinal centerline of stern hull 12 at about 330, but may range from straight forward at 00 to an angle out of about 450 measured out from the longitudinal centerline of watercraft 2. Each fore and aft extending starboard and port tube connector 15 and L6 extends forward and out to the starboard and port hulls 11 and I0, diagonally extending across the two decks or part way across for screw or bolt attachments 1JQ. The two fore and aft extending tube connectors 15 and J6 may pass over, or under the two crossbeam tube connectors 13 and 14, or even welded or braced to them to form the same or a similar structure as shown in this figure. A stern hull traveler connector tube or support 29 is positioned in the fore section of the stern hull 12 and is attached to the deck and two fore and aft extending tube connectors and 16 with bolts or screws 1. for both extra support and controlling the sail 32 and boom 31 with mainsheet 2a (not shown, see Figure The traveler connector tube or support 29 may be positioned straight across as shown or curved forward as shown in Figure 30 or angled forward as shown in Figure 3. A cockpit 33 and steering tiller 34 (showing direction of motion) are also positioned on the stern hull 12. The rigging (forestays 12 and shrouds 22 and 23, and backstay 27) to support the mast 21, sail 32, and boom 31 may be attached as shown or anywhere on the three hull amphibious tube structure component.

As indicated in Figures 3 and 30, the three hulls shown spread far apart connected only with tubes, or other streamlined connectors shown in Figure 31 offer WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 41 extremely light weight and stability, ideally matched for sailing on hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures. Again, materials for construction may range from light weight metal to high-tech composites for all structures in this invention.

The tube connectors in Figure 32 and other streamnlined connectors shown in Figure 31, are not limited -o straight tubes or connectors. For example, the two crossbeam tube connectors 13 and 1A shown in Figure 32 can be arched or angled up slightly to a high point at watercraft 9 longitudinal centerline as shown in Figure 30A to give better wave clearance, and for optional cable, rope, or rod reinforcements. Secondary tubes, rods, braces, and other connectors can be added to the primary three hull amphibious tube structure component and hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure component within the design, function, and scope of this invention.

The bolts or screws used for connecting the three hulls and tube connectors together in any of the above described figures offer two of several fastening options which include fastpins, hose clamps, pipe clamps, cast or molded fittings, tube or pipe bonding, bracing or welding, and other fastening means within the design, function, and scope of this invention.

Figures 33 and 34 are the same views as Figures 4 and 5; and Figures 35 and 36 are the same views as Figures 7 and 8 except the hulls shown have strut mounted wheels for operating the light weight three hull amphibious tube structure component over land.

Figure 33 is a front view of the port bow hull and Figure 34 is a side view of the same structure shown in Figure 33. The three hull amphibious tube structure component of this invention, by inherent design, will accommodate wheels 112 and struts 1,U attachments. To WO 91/09767 WO 9109767PCT/US90/07355 42 convert from a watercraft to wheels on land, the three hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures *22, -41. and -U, and struts U-k LL and fI2 as shown in Figures 1-9 are removed from the port Lind starboard bow hulls J..and .11, and stern hull .12 by removing bolts or screws .j.The three wheels 2.12 and struts 2ZI are then attached to the three hulls using the same adjusting bolts or screws U in pivot hole .52 and adjusting slots a and U, ready to roll.

Shown in this view from top to bottom, is the forward most crossbeam tube connector U2, two bolts or screw attachments 2 through tube connector 13. into the port bow hull two wheel struts 1,U~ with bolt or screw attachments Q, a wheel 13.2, shaft and lock nuts .111.

Figure 34 is a side view of Figure 33 with the same description, plus showing two crossbeam tube connectors i3. and .2A, two vertical elongated adjusting slots 5- and and a pivot hole 5~2, with bolts or screws .5Q removed for clarity of view.

Figure 35 is the same cross section front view of the stern hull .12. shown in Figure 7, looking from the front showing the stern hull IZ, cockpit 33., fore and aft starboard and port tube connectors and and from top to bottom, the steering tiller 3Aj with direction of motion arrows, the tiller shaft U~3, shaft hole LA~, strut bracket Li, two adjusting bolt-, or screws .JQ, four ramaining bolts or screws (not shown), two wheel struts .QJU, a wheel 212, shaft 21Q, and lock nuts LU11. The backstay 22, connected to the mast, is hidden from view in back of the steering tiller. The engine or electric motor ,propeller .32, and stanchion support .shown in Figure 1 are removed in Figure 35 as a matter of power option between sail U2 or engine 3E and propeller 32.

L,

WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 43 Figure 36 is a side view of Figure 35 with the same description, plus showing two vertical elongated adjusting slots 58 and 5.U, and a pivot hole 57, with bolts or screws 60 removed for clarity of view. Bolts or screws 18 go through the fore and aft extending starboard and port tube connectors 15 and 16 for attachment to stern hull 12.

The struts 109 and wheels 21 are all removable as shown in Figures 33-36. With wheels, struts, and hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structures removed, the light weight three hull amphibious tube structure can still be propelled on water, snow or ice with only a rudder and fins or runners added under the hulls. In addition, since the three hulls are not needed on land, the strut mounted wheels 12. and shafts iml0 also may be attached directly to the triangular light weight tube structure in place of the three hulls.

As the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure component is adaptable by inherent design to support a variety of light to medium displacement watercraft, aquatic structures, and airfoil structures, the three hull amphibious tube structure component, by inherent design, accommodates most any power means and will perform on water, snow, ice, and on land with wheel attachments.

Application of the three hull amphibious tube structure, as a matched component to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure, provides watercraft size options which range from toy size for kids, to model size for radio control, and full size as a passenger carrying aquatic structure or watercraft.

Power means may be attached to the three hull amphibious tube structure as shown in Figure 1 or directly to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure as shown in Figure 37 and range from a tow string or WO 91/09767 PCT/IUS90/07355 44 line to toy size key wind up or rubber band power, to model engine or electric motor power, to human power rowing, human pedal-powered water or air propeller, to outboard engines, inboard or inboard-outboard engines, jet drives, airplane engine and propeller, wind powered wing sails, wing masts, and wind sail power from model size to passenger carrying and racing size.

Since the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure is designed to lift or plane itself, a watercraft, aquatic structure or airfoil structure in or above water or fly through air with fluid supported planes or planar surfaces, said structure is adaptable by disclosed and inherent design to lift or plane at various speeds a variety of light to medium weight aquatic or airfoil structures, to include kneeboards, water skis, a person riding, standing or towed on said structure itself, skiboards, sailboards, surfboards, aquatic structures propelled by paddles or oars, aquatiC structures propelled by pedal-driven propeller or paddle wheels, skiffs, canoes, shells, kayaks, dinghies, inflatable watercraft, rowboats, hydroplane hulls, water scooters, personal watercraft, pontoon or sponson float structures, single or multihull s ilboats and motorboats, airboats, and ground-effect aircraft, seaplanes, ultralight tube or strut frame airfoil wing structures, airfoil wing watercraft, propelled airfoil or planar flying wing aircraft, airfoil or planar wing gliders, airfoil or planar wing kites, and other hydroplaning hydrofoil or airfoil fluid supported structures.

The descriptions for the figures in this invention provide details of design, construction, amphibious, and reverse direction versatility, power means, and aquatic or air supported structures, buoyancy and one or more fluid levels a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure WO 91/09767 PCY/US90/07355 accelerates through to achieve either hydroplane or airfoil support.

However, variations may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art without detracting from the realities of the structures and performances described in this invention. For example the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure in its preferred and most preferred configurations offers additional performance options that include planing on or through a fluid such as water or air. Of course in an airfoil configuration such as an ultralight wing aircraft, glider wing or kite, the same shape hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure.performs as an airfoil wing structure or planar wing structure planing or flying through air herein described.

As will be evidenced from the title of this invention, a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or flying through a fluid is shown supporting itself in Figures 37 to 41. In describing these Figures, the same reference numerals for the same parts will be used as in Figures 4-6 for clarity and simplification.

Figure 37 is an enlarged side view, similar to the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39 shown in Figures 4, 5, and 6 with fin 62 and struts 53-54 removed, showing an engine or electric motor 36 and air propeller 37 from Figure 1 mounted on stanchion 38 plus a topside air rudder I13 mounted along longitudinal top foil centerline _2 as shown in Figure 40 and elevator or aileron 1U4 attachment to air rudder 113. This buoyant hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39 is shown hydroplaning at water level 51 prior to flight and in Figure 38 the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 1239 or flying wing, planes or flies through air in sustained flight.

WO 91/09767 PCF/US90/07355 46 Figure 39 is a front view and Figure 40 is a top view of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39 shown in Figures 37 and 38 hydroplaning at water level and is similar to the structure shown in Figures 4-6 having the same reference numerals as shown in Figure 6 with fin 62 and struts 53-4. removed.

Figure 41 is a side view of the identical hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 3 shown in Figures 4-6 gliding or planing through air. In this Figure, fin 62 is retained.

As described for Figures 4-6, the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure 39 in Figures 39 and 40 has a left side foil top surface 47 and a right side foil top surface 48 each having a fore foil top section (49 and 50 respectively) converging to form a full length fore and aft longitudinal top foil centerline 75, and a bottom centerline 76 formed by two converging full length foil planar-bottom surfaces, a left side foil planar-bottom surface 77 and a right side foil planarbottom surface 78. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 78 ascend transversely from the longitudinal bottom centerline 2- to form a dihedral angle of about 180 as shown or in the range of about 20 to 500 broadly or preferably also in the range of about 20 to 50° or most preferably in the range of about 20 to 30°. Each left side foil planar-bottom surface 77 and right side foil planar-bottom surface 78 has a fore foil planar-bottom section (79 and 80 respectively) which is a forward extension along the longitudinal bottom centerline _76.

Each fore foil planar-bottom section has a swept-back leading edge of 600 as shown or one preferably ranging from about 300 to about 800 swept-back as described for Figures 22 and 26 or most preferably ranging from about 450 to about 700 swept-back as described for Figures 27- 29.

WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 47 The length of each fore foil planar-bottom section 79 and B, as shown in Figure 40 is the same as described for Figures 5 and 6, and is about the first one-third of the entire length or chord of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal top foil and bottom centerlines 75 and 16; however, the length of the fore foil planar-bottom sections in their broadest aspects can range from 00 shown in Figure 23 or in the preferred length of about one fourth of the chord length shown in F'gure 26 to about the first two-thirds to three-fourths of the chord length along top foil and bottom centerlines 75 and 1.

shown in Figures 22 and Each left side foil planar-bottom surface 77 and right side foil planar-bottom surface 78 has an aft foil planar-bottom section which is a backward or aft extension along the longitudinal bottom centerline 76.

As shown in Figures 39 and 40, each aft foil planarbottom section 68 and 69 at high speed water or fluid level 51 has a forward swept trailing edge 82 of 300 as shown or one preferably ranging from about 00 to about 600 forward swept as described for Figures 22 and 24-26 or most p-eferably from about 100 to about 450 forward swept as described for Figures 27-29.

The length of each aft foil planar-bottom section 8. and 69 is about the last one-fourth to about onethird of the entire chord length of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure along longitudinal bottom centerline 76 at high speed water or fluid level 51 as shown in Figure 39. The aft foil planar-bottom sections 68 and 69 vary in wetted surface area and length with speed and load; however, it is the section of the hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure which provides for high speed hydroplaning prior to sustained flight.

WO 91/09767 PCTJ/US90/07355 48 The left side and right side foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 28 have left wing and right wing forward swept leading edges 81 of 120 as shown in Figure however, left and right leading edges 81 can be forward swept preferably in the range of about 00 to about 600 forward sweep as described for Figures 22 and 24-26, or most preferably in the range of about 40 to about 450 forward sweep as described for Figures 27-29. Foil planar-bottom surfaces 77 and 2a have forward swept trailing edges coextensive with aft foil planar-bottom section trailing edge a82, forward swept 300 as shown, but with forward swent ranges as described above.

The angle of attack may range from about 10 to 160 as described earlier for Figures 21-23 while accelerating through water level 51 before becoming airborne in sustained flight. Once airborne, the angle of attack varies greatly depending on speed, payload, and whether the airfoil structure 39 is ascending or descending. Motor 36, air propeller stanchion 3., topside air rudder and elevator iAi are as described in Figure 37.

Optional holes BI shown in Figure 40 accommodate optional step U_ as described more fully for the description of Figure 10 and as shown in Figures 14A, 15, 16B and 17. These optional holes will also accommodate removable or permanent fin 62 as shown in Figures 5 and 41 or a rudder 12 as shown in Figures 7 and 8.

Optional power, wing stabilizers including winglets and canards, landing wheels, and passenger or payload carrying enclosures may be built in or attached to various scale hydroplaning hydrofoil or airfoil structures for gliding or propelled flight. In concluding the description of this invention, a light weight hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure selected WO 91/09767 PCT/US90/07355 49 from Figures 4, 5, 6, and 17, enlarged but of identical foil shape, and merely having a weight added to the fore foil sections, performed repetitiously with a surprisingly long glide path, planing or gliding through air, supporting the inherent versatility of the disclosed structures of this invention to plane on or fly through a fluid preferably either water or air.

This fore foil stabilized hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure in the spirit of flight is shown gliding in Figure 41.

In the claims which follow, reference to certain Figures of the drawings is for the purpose of ease of understanding and not by way of limitation.

Claims (21)

1. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or through a fluid of water or air comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar- bottom surface, two of said surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of 10 to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a forward swerpt leading edge ranging from 20 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 600 forward sweep, and each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom .centerline, each fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge ranging from 300 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 800 swept-back, and each aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge ranging from 50 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 600 forward swept.

2. A hydroplaning hydL3foil/airfoil structure for 30 planing on or through a fluid of water or air comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar- bottom surface, two of said surfaces intersecting along a •fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in 51 the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of 20 to 150 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a forward swept leading edge ranging from 20 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 600 forward sweep, and each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline, each fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge ranging from 300 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 750 swept-back, and each aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge ranging from 50 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 600 forward swept.

3. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or through a fluid of water or air comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar- bottom surface, two of said surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left -side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of 2° to 30° up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of 20 to 150 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a forward swept leading edge ranging from 40 from a 1 4 ne perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 450 forward sweep, and each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section r^ C) (*0 52 intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline, each fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge ranging from 450 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 700 swept-back, and each aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge ranging from 100 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline to 450 forward swept.

4. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or through a fluid of water or air comprising: at least four foils, each having a substantially planar- bottom surface, two of said four foil substantially planar- bottom surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil substantially planar-bottom surface descending transversely from said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline to form a negative dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 down from a transverse horizontal line to a lower left longitudinal bottom line intersection formed with an outer left side intersecting foil substantially planar-bottom Ssurface and a lower right longitudinal bottom line intersection formed with an outer right side intersecting o" 25 foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each outer left side and right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said lower left longitudinal bottom line intersection and said lower right longitudinal bottom line intersection to form a positive 30 dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line, each of said four foil substantially planar-bottom surfaces having an angle of attack of 20 to 150 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline, each said outer left side and outer right Eide foil substantially planar-bottom surface haviing a forward swept leading edge ranging j::I from 20 from a line perpendicular to said lower left longitudinal bottom line intersection and said lower right longitudinal bottom line intersection to 600 forward sweep, and a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section intersecting along said lower left longitudinal bottom line intersection and said lower right longitudinal bottom line intersection, and each said left side and right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline having a fore foil planar-bottom section and an aft foil planar-bottom section intersecting along said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline, each fore foil planar-Lottom section having a swept-back leading edge ranging from 300 from a line perpendicular to said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline and said lower left and lower right longitudinal bottom line intersections to 750 swept-back, and each aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge ranging from 50 from a line perpendicular to said fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline and said lower left and lower right longitudinal bottom lina intersections to 600 forward swept. A hydroplaning "ydrofoil/airfoil structure for S. planing on or through wa ar comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar-bottom surface, two of said surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil substantially planar-bottom surface ascending transversely 30 from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge of 450 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline and an aft foil planar-bottom section having a forward swept trailing edge of 450 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline.

6. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or through water comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar-bottom surface, two of said surfaces intersecting along a fore and aft longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil substantially planar-bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of attack of 1° to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge of 600 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline, and S* an aft foil planar-bottom section trailing edge extending substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline.

7. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure for planing on or through water comprising: at least two foils each having a substantially planar-bottom surface, two of $601 ,longitudinal bottom centerline forming a left side foil 30 substantially planar-bottom surface and a right side foil D. substantially planar-bottom surface, each foil planar- bottom surface ascending transversely from said longitudinal bottom centerline to form a dihedral angle in the range of 20 to 500 up from a transverse horizontal line and having a positive angle of Pztack of 10 to 160 in the direction of motion from a horizontal longitudinal line up to said longitudinal bottom centerline, each said left and right foil substantially planar-bottom surface having a fore foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back leading edge of 600 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline, and an aft foil planar-bottom section having a swept-back trailinc edge of 300 from a line perpendicular to said longitudinal bottom centerline.

8. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-7 wherein at least one substantially vertically extending fin or rudder is affixed to the underside of the structure.

9. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-4 wherein at least one substantially vertically extending air rudder or fin is affixed to the topside of said structure.

10. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-9 wherein said structure has ,ropulsion means affixed thereto.

11. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-10 wherein a hydroplaning step is affixed to the underside of the fore foil planar-bottom sections, relative to the direction of motion, along the 'longitudinal bottom centerline, said hydroplaning step .having a wedge angle of attack in the range of 20 to 450 down from the longitudinal bottom centerline and a dihedral 25 angle in the range of 40 to 52° up from a horizontal transverse line.

12. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure S.0 according to any of Claims 1-11 wherein at least one of the leading or trailing edges are curved and at least one of 30 the edge intersections are rounded.

13. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-12 wherein said structure is divided vertically in half through the longitudinal centerline providing two separate structures.

14. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-13 wherein said structure is reversible in the longitudinal direction of motion. 56 A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-14 wherein said structure includes means for attaching said structure to an aquatic structure or watercraft.

16. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-15 wherein said structure includes means for controlling the angle of attack.

17. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-16 wherein said structure includes means for rotating the structure for directional control.

18. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-4 wherein each said foil substantially planar-bottom surface forms with a foil top surface a cross section thickness whereby the foil or chord thickness between leading and trailing edge intersections creates lift planing through air or buoyancy to support said structure in water.

19. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 5-7 wherein each said foil substantially planar-bottom surface forms with a foil top surface a cross section thickness whereby the foil or chord thickness between leading and trailing edge intersections creates buoyancy to support said structure in water.

20. The hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-19 wherein each foil top surface is curved and forms with each foil substantially planar-bottom surface a cross section thickness that is substantially identical at the leading and trailing edges j. 30 to the center of the chord length whereby said structure is optionally reversible in the longitudinal direction of motion.

21. A hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of 'Claims 1-20 wherein each foil bottom surface forms with a foil top surface a cross section thickness selected from one of the cross section thicknesses to as follows: 57 each foil top surface is curved a ;d forms with each foil substantially planar-bottom surface a cross section thickness whereby the maximum chord thickness is forard of the center of structure length to provide a structure which moves in one direction of motion; each foil top surface is curved and forms with each foil bottom surface an elongated teardrop cross section thickness to provide a structure which moves in one direction of motion; each foil top surface is substantially parallel to each foil planar-bottom surface and forms a substantially flat plate or sheet cross section thickness whereby said structure is optionally reversible in the longitudinal direction of motion; each foil top surface is substantially parallel to each foil planar-bottom surface and forms a substantially flat plate or sheet cross section thickness wherein the substantially flat plate or sheet curves up in the range of 10 to 350 in the fore section in the direction of motion; aach foil top surface is curved and each foil bottom surface is curved and forms an elongated oval cross section thickness that is substantially identical at the leading and trailing edges to the center of the chord length whereby said structure is optionally reversible in the longitudinal direction of motion; each foil top surface forms with each foil bottom surface a substantially elongated wedge cross section thickness between the leading and trailing edges whereby said structure moves in one direction of motion.

22. An aquatic structure or watercraft comprising: at least one buoyant hull, a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure of any of Claims 1-21 mounted on the underside of each hull with the fore and aft longitudinal centerline of said hydroplaning hydrofoil airfoil structure under the longitudinal axis of each hull, and propulsion means mounted on said watercraft for powering the watercraft.

23. An aquatic structure or watercraft comprising: a port bow hull, a starboard bc'w hull, and a stern hull, said hulls forming a triangular configuration all rigidly connected; a hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure according to any of Claims 1-21 mounted on the underside of each of the hulls with the fore and aft centerline of each hydroplaning hydrofoil/airfoil structure under f he longitudinal axis of each hull; propulsion means mounted on said watercraft for powering the watercraft; and means for rotating at least one structure for directional control of the watercraft. DATED THIS 11TH DAY OF JANUARY 1994 HAROLD EUGENE FOLLETT By His Patent Attorneys: GRIFFITH HACK CO Fellows Institute of Patent Attorneys of Australia *i i C